Jubayer Tanin, from Abu Dhabi
Since that match in the Nidahas Trophy 2018, when Nazmul Islam Apu and Mushfiqur Rahim celebrated in the famous ‘Nagin’ style, nothing has remained the same between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka from a cricketing perspective. That moment ignited a fierce rivalry not just on the field but also among the fans of both nations.
Fast forward to the 2023 ODI World Cup, who can forget the dramatic ‘Timed Out’ incident? Angelo Mathews’s helmet strap malfunctioned, and then Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan appealed. The decision stood, sparking another heated chapter in this rivalry.
Now, Bangladesh are once again set to take on their old foes Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup, in a much-anticipated clash on Saturday at Zayed Cricket Stadium. In their opening game of the tournament against Hong Kong, the Tigers sealed a commanding seven-wicket victory to kick things off in style.
After that match, pacer Tanzim Hasan Shakib attended an embargo press conference, where he was asked about Bangladesh’s approach against Sri Lanka, especially with net run rate in mind.
Tanzim replied confidently, “It’s very straightforward. Our approach will be to go for the win. Last time we won the T20 series in Sri Lanka, which gives us confidence. We will step onto the field looking for victory.”
So far, these two sides have faced each other 20 times in this format, with Bangladesh managing eight wins. However, Bangladesh’s recent performances against the Lankan Lions have been prolific, including a T20I series win in July.
Reflecting on that experience, Tanzim said, “We have played a lot of games against Sri Lanka. Before the Asia Cup, we played a whole series with them. We know each and every player, and we plan accordingly. They have some very good players, and we will try to stop them by playing our best cricket.”
Tanzim admitted that rivalries will always be there, as clashes between the two teams in the past 7–8 years have often been eventful.
“Rivalries will always be there. But in a tournament, no matter which team you play against, winning is the main thing. Be it Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, or Pakistan, we will enter the field to win,” the right-arm pacer said.
Putting aside the rivalry narrative, Bangladesh’s focus remains firmly on qualifying for the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup, with two teams advancing from each group.
Tanzim also reflected on the team’s motivation, drawing confidence from their recent series win against Sri Lanka,“For me, rivalries are not the key issue; winning matches is what’s important. And winning the last series against Sri Lanka gives us a lot of confidence. When you’ve beaten a team before, it definitely gives you a boost on the field.”
And before the high-stakes encounter, Tanzim highlighted the impact of fan support, “Wherever you go, Bangladeshi fans are always there. They always come to the ground to support us, and that really boosts our confidence. You know our supporters are very emotional. That’s our biggest strength.”
